Abeokuta gears up to host 3rd African U18/U20 athletics champs
By Uzor Odigbo
Barely a week to go, excitement is building as Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, prepares to host the 3rd Edition African U18/U20 Athletics Championships from July 16 to 20.
This prestigious event will bring together Africa’s brightest young track and field stars, with 54 countries expected to participate.
A remarkable 43 countries have already confirmed their attendance, with 937 athletes and officials registered.
In a press statement issued by Melinda Lombard on behalf of World Wide Scholarship (WWS) stated that Africa’s athletics powerhouses, including Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt, are all confirmed to be represented.
They’ll be joined by strong contenders like Ghana, Algeria, Morocco, Cameroon, Senegal, and Uganda, among others.
Host nation Nigeria is fielding the largest delegation with 132 participants (60 male athletes, 50 female athletes, and 22 officials). South Africa follows with a 100-member contingent (42 men, 40 women, and 18 officials). Ethiopia (69 delegates), Kenya (67 representatives), and Algeria (65 participants) are also sending strong teams.
Chief Tonobok Okowa the President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and Vice president of the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) explained That “Preparations are in top gear and facilities has been upgraded and everybody on the ground is happy that the competition is coming to Nigeria”.
The Organizers are working tirelessly to ensure a world-class experience for all participants.
Every detail, from logistics, transportation, and accommodation to feeding, competition services, and liaison support, is being meticulously fine-tuned to deliver a memorable championship.
This championship comes just two months after Abeokuta successfully hosted over 15,000 athletes and officials for the Gateway Games 2024 (the 22nd National Sports Festival).
With the upcoming 3rd Edition CAA African U18/U20 Championships and other international events on the horizon, Nigeria is quickly becoming a leading hub for sports development, youth engagement, and international competition.
Certified by the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), the championship promises to be a thrilling showcase of youthful energy and continental pride, highlighting Africa’s next generation of track and field championships
